Description

Any applicant who has successfully completed the Radar Observer Recertification (MIDATL-402) course will satisfy the training requirements of 46 CFR 11.480(f) for maintaining the validity of an endorsement as Radar Observer.

The end result of this course is that the trainee passes an examination designed to demonstrate proficiency in the use of radar for collision avoidance and radar navigation. Students who successfully complete this course will be able to determine information on course, speed, and CPA of radar contacts to enable early action to be taken to provide for a safe passing distance; and to safely navigate their vessel in piloting waters.

This course aims to meet the mandatory minimum requirements for knowledge, understanding, and proficiency in Table A-ll/1 of Standards for Training and Certification of Watchkeepers (STCW) Code as amended in accordance with the Manila accords.

Use of radar and ARPA to maintain safety of navigation

Radar navigation Knowledge of the fundamentals of radar and automatic radar plotting aids (ARPA)
Ability to operate and to interpret and analyze information obtained from radar, including the following:

Use, including:1. range and bearing; course and speed of other ships; time and distance of closest approach of crossing, meeting overtaking ships
2. identification of critical echoes; detecting course and speed changes of other ships; effect of changes in own ship’s course or speed or both
3. application of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, as amended
4. plotting techniques and relative- and true motion concepts
5. parallel indexing

Classroom instruction—including demonstration and practical exercises using simulators—and examination, in the following subjects:
1. Interpretation and analysis of radar information
a) Radar navigation (including visual techniques)—determining positions, and detecting changes in the relative motion, of other vessels.
b) Collision-avoidance, including visual techniques, appropriate to the circumstances and the equipment in use.
c) Determining the course and speed of another vessel.
d) Determining the time and distance of closest point of approach of a crossing, meeting, overtaking, or overtaken vessel.
e) Detecting changes of course or speed of another vessel after its initial course and speed have been established.
f) Applying the Navigational Rules, and other factors to consider when determining changes of course or speed of a vessel to prevent collisions on the basis of observation.
g) Use of radar in maintaining situational awareness.